Phase 4 Tricky Words Unicorn Stabling Game

Phase 4 tricky words game for practising tricky word reading and recall in a hands-on way. In this unicorn matching activity, pupils listen to a tricky word and place a unicorn card on the correct word on their stable board, building accurate recognition through repeated practice.

This activity works well in phonics sessions, guided groups and targeted support. It encourages pupils to listen carefully, locate the correct word and check accuracy, helping Phase 4 tricky words become more secure over time.

How to play

• Give each pupil a stable board and a set of unicorn cards.
• Call out a tricky word and pupils place a unicorn card on the matching word.
• Continue until all tricky words have been practised, then repeat for extra retrieval.
• For paired play, pupils take turns to call out the tricky words and check each other’s choices.

Explore more Phase 4 tricky words and browse our Phase 4 phonics resources.